Public accident case reclassified as murder investigation 05-18-05

MEDIA RELEASE UPDATE

Big Island police have reclassified the investigation into the death of a Kona man from a public accident to a murder case.

West Hawaii Criminal Investigation Section detectives are investigating the May 1, 2005, death of Andrew Powers, 41, of Holualoa. Powers was originally thought to have been killed in a moped crash on the Boat Park Road. It was thought he had lost control of his Hyosung moped, fell over and hit his head on the pavement.

Investigators gave no details on why the case was reclassified to a murder investigation.

Anyone who may have information about the Powers’ death is asked to call Detective Gary Souther of the West Hawaii CIS at 326-4646, Ext. 275, or the police non-emergency number at 935-3311.

Those who wish to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 in Hilo or 329-8181 in Kona. All Crime Stoppers information is kept strictly confidential.